Do you have a stiff big toe? This can be hallux rigidus, a form of degenerative arthritis that causes pain and stiffness in the joint where the big toe connects to the foot.
Clinical picture of a hallux rigidus (Wikipedia, flour eye)
Hallux rigidus gets worse over time and the pain may get worse in cold weather. As time goes on, walking or even standing can become very painful. Often, a callus or a bunion develops on top of the foot.
The condition can develop because of overuse of the joint. In others, hallux rigidus runs in the family. Other causes are rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory diseases.
Early management for hallux rigidus include
- Taking NSAIDs to help relieve pain and reduce swelling in the big toe
- Placing shoe pads to limit big toe movement
- Wearing appropriate footwear with enough room for your toes.
- Custom foot orthotics can help. High-heels are out.
- Thick-soled shoes with a rocker bottom may also be recommended by your clinician.
- Intra-articular cortisone injections.
- Avoiding high-impact activities that can further cause pain and place high impact stress on the foot such as jumping and running.
Nonsurgical management shows about 50 percent success rate.
If these conservative measures fail to resolve pain and stiffness, then surgery may be necessary. There are different types of operative treatments and the choice depends of various factors such as the severity of disability, extent of osteoarthritis, and the patient’s level of activity.
Hallux Rigidus 2 weeks after Cartiva implant for the big toe joint.
Hallux limitus to Rigidus can benefit from first joint implant either metal such as #arthrosurface or silicone such as the #cartiva implant. Textbook answer and the gold standard still is a fusion for the procedure for for select patients these implants have been a life and lifestyle changer.
For the best options for your foot, contact Dr. Kevin Lam’s office at (239) 430-3668 or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com.
Family Foot and Leg Center has several locations in Lee and Collier county to get you back on your feet fast.
Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!
